Scalpel blade sizes vary a lot and are selected according to how they will be used.
The #10 scalpel blade size is used most often in surgical situations. It is used for making large incisions through skin and subcutaneous tissues. It is similar to the #22 scalpel blade, which is larger. The #22 blade is used for biggier incisions through thicker tissue or for dissection of soft tissue. For example, in larger animals.
Scalpel blade sizes #10, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 all have a “belly” like curve. The sharpest area by far on these scalpel blades is at the curve of the belly. Most physicians and technicians use the rounded part of the blade to make their incision. The smallest of the scalpel blade sizes is #15, often you will find this scalpel blade used in small animal surgery where short, precise incisions are needed. Scalpel blade size #15 could also be used in many different situations like removing skin lesions, performing an organ biopsy or in fine neurological applications. Larger scalpel blades like the #22 and #23 are designed for making bigger incisions like those required for a thoracotomy or a laparotomy.
A #11 scalpel blade size is a triangular blade with a sharp point, often referred to as a stabbing scalpel blade. This scalpel blade is used for making stab-style incisions and short, precision cuts. These incisions are made in shallow or recessed areas. For example, it could be used for inserting chest tubes or drains or for making a cut in a blood vessel where you need to insert a catheter.
The #12 scalpel blade size is curved and is frequently used for removing sutures.
Crafters will often select the popular #10 and #11 scalpel blade sizes. Surgical blades are typically thinner than craft blades, making them more flexible. Some artists recommend choosing straight blades like the #11 scalpel blade size for making straight cuts and curved blades like the #10 for making curved cuts.
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